This Year's iMac Line Gets New Intel Processors and Faster Storage

Apple has just released the annual updated version of their popular iMac desktop computer, which is substantial, but is it enough to upgrade over last year's redesign?

The new iMac features a a 2.7GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 processor on the base 21.5-inch model, and upgraded internal specs such as speedier 802.11ac Wi-Fi and faster PCIe-based flash storage. There are also configurations that can be added, such as 3.4GHz Core i5 Haswell processors and NVIDIA GeForce 700 series graphics for the top model, with up to 4GB of dedicated memory. With this, the iMac turns into—among many other things—a solid mid-range gaming PC.

The iMac also now comes with 8GB of RAM with a 1TB hard drive as the standard, giving substantial improvement over the previous model, and is available for purchase beginning today. Prices range from the base $1,299, to heftier $1,999, for base models.

So, is it worth upgrading? This edition is better over the previous model for heavy-duty video editing or gaming, but beyond that, last year's model should suffice for any of your non-technical needs.

You can take a look at the specs yourself at the Apple Store, which is also the perfect (and only) place to purchase one yourself.